Inspectors ensure ride safety before Feast of St. Anthony

City building inspectors worked to ensure ride safety ahead of the start of the annual Feast of St. Anthony on Wednesday.

For the big Ferris wheel, they checked that bolts were secure and tightly fastened, and they thoroughly inspected each car on the wheel.

The Department of Buildings' elevator division inspects about 700 portable rides at city street fairs every year. The specialized unit is also responsible for checking about 200 permanent rides at places such as Luna Park in Brooklyn.

Inspectors say their job is to leave no stone unturned when it comes to safety. Although rare, they say accidents do occur. They say one way to prevent getting hurt on a ride is to follow all safety rules displayed on the attractions.

Unannounced spot inspections are conducted during the festivities to make sure rides are properly maintained and that operators are following safety rules.